I am starting on my 4th Bamboo Rod. This will be a 8' two piece 5/6 weight Smartt Blackfoot taper. I have made two rods on this taper already (one for myself and sold one). I have been bleaching the culm in the sun for a few weeks and may flame it tomorrow. I sold this one to a good friend of mine and told him not to get in any hurry as I fish in the summer and make rods in the winter. I will have it ready for him to fish next spring. I am planning on him "helping" some with the rod (planing, sanding, and wrapping). I thinke he will enjoy that.
The Journey begins.............

Knothead is very correct. As a custom rod builder I have been audited three times in the last twelve years. The last time the IRS agent was at my shop for five days! On the other occasions their were two agents. Granted my shop is rather large but I know of smaller operations that have also been audited. Good record keeping is a must. Depending on where you are state sales tax may also have to be collected. This sounds complicated but its really not and I passed my audits. If I can be of assistance please let me know.

Finally got the rod glued up. Have been so busy with work, fishing, and redoing my shop that I have not had time to work on it. Fortunately the friend I am making it for is pretty patient.
I'll post pictures in a few days
God Bless,
Dances with Trout